It is a sad fact that many dogs develop anxiety and fear due to being abused, neglected, or abandoned. When these dogs are adopted into a new home, the owners will not only have to contend with the task of training their new dog, but working with canine anxiety as well. The methods of training a fearful puppy are similar to training any puppy. The biggest difference between a normal dog and a fearful dog is the amount of time, patience, and compassion that are needed. A regular puppy will perform tasks happily, even if those tasks are met with initial apprehension. Fearful puppies need to be coaxed into performing the task and shown that nothing bad will happen if they do so.
Instructions
1. Use the system of "Ask, Tell, Command." Ask your dog to do something. If he does, reward him. If he does not, repeat the command in a firm voice. Reward him for compliance. If your dog will not perform the task, give the command again in your most stern voice.
2. Be calm, cool, and consistent when dealing with a fearful puppy. If you get upset or nervous, your dog will as well. Consistency helps establish a pattern of action and reward in the dog's mind.
3. Develop a sense of infinite patience. According to the Applied Behavior Handbook for Dogs, dogs who are fearful or dealing with severe psychological issues will need nearly twice the amount of time to learn commands as normal dogs.
4. Reward your dog for following commands. Physical affection and verbal praise should be grand and dramatic, making the dog who just sat down on command believe she is the best dog in the world. Food treats can be used when extreme persuasion is needed.
5. Work on training in short sessions of 5 to 10 minutes in length. Always end your training sessions on a positive note by commanding the dog to perform a task he already knows.
6. Establish a word and physical cue that signals to the dog that the training session is over. Holding your hands wide and proclaiming "Okay, we're done," in a high pitched and happy voice is a common cue set.
7. Perform several training sessions per day. Train when your dog is frightened as well as calm. Training can act to reduce fear and anxiety by teaching your dog that, while a nearby car alarm may be frightening, the world will go on.
8. Carry out your training sessions without distractions or unnecessary people in the room. The more distractions and people, the more likely a fearful dog is to not respond. You can add distractions to the training routine later.
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